The same mail which brought to Edna his letter of disapproval carried instructions⁠—the most minute instructions⁠—to a well-known architect concerning the remodeling of his home, changes which he had long contemplated, and which he desired carried forward during his temporary absence.

Expert and reliable packers and movers were engaged to convey the furniture, carpets, pictures⁠—everything movable, in short⁠—to places of security. And in an incredibly short time the Pontellier house was turned over to the artisans. There was to be an addition⁠—a small snuggery; there was to be frescoing, and hardwood flooring was to be put into such rooms as had not yet been subjected to this improvement.